UN conferences often bring political grudges to the surface, and this September's is no exception. Amid heated debates over foreign involvement in the Russia–Ukraine war, several global powers are under fire for their actions—or lack thereof. Volodymyr Zelensky, unreserved in his frustrations, has turned his sharpest criticism this time toward China.
Despite China's lack of direct military involvement in the conflict, according to Beijing, its stance of neutrality is geared towards promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution rather than taking sides. China asserts that maintaining economic relations with Russia is a part of its broader strategy to engage constructively with all parties involved. However, Zelensky argues that such financial ties with Moscow have effectively bolstered Russia's military power. Without that support, he insists, Russia would not be nearly as destructive. 'If China really wanted this war to end, it would force Moscow to stop this invasion. Without China, Putin's Russia is nothing. But China remains silent and aloof, instead of acting for peace,' Zelensky declared.
